By Clark 
No side dish embodies casual dining as effectively as fries—the archetypal accompaniment for nearly any sandwich, burger, or wrap. They are flavorful with a variety of sauces and dips, ranging from salt and pepper to ketchup or melted cheese.
But if you think you’ve seen it all when it comes to this ubiquitous aspect, you’re in for a surprise. A novel variation of fries will be introduced at select KFC outlets, and it is very remarkable.
KBP Brands, the largest KFC franchisee in the United States, has announced that Funnel Cake Fries will be available at 77 KFC restaurants in Kansas City, Omaha, St. Louis, Northwestern Arkansas, and Southeastern Oklahoma starting this week.
Sure to bring you back to cool autumn evenings spent roaming around the local carnival or state fair, these “fries” are crispy on the exterior, soft and fluffy on the inside, and topped with powdered sugar. Moreover, although traditional funnel cakes might be somewhat untidy, these portable dessert sticks are conveniently packaged for easy consumption while on the move.
KBP reports that the sweet side, initially soft-launched in the Kansas City market this fall, has rapidly gained viral popularity, prompting this expansion. Should the Funnel Cake Fries maintain their success in Midwest regions, it is highly probable that further markets may incorporate them into their menus in 2023.
KBP is urging consumers to innovate their orders by combining Funnel Cake Fries with chicken tenders or a KFC Chicken Sandwich, despite funnel cakes often being classified as a dessert.
“As the foremost KFC franchisee, KBP Brands is committed to endorsing test initiatives aimed at improving the customer experience,” stated Tonya Mangels, vice president of marketing activation at KBP Brands. “The sweetness of Funnel Cake Fries combined with our renowned savory fried chicken caters to our customers’ growing appetite for innovative, delectable, and fulfilling menu options.”
The Funnel Cake Fries are offered in three sizes with corresponding prices: Small ($1.99), Large ($2.99), and Family ($5.99). The Fries are offered at select KBP KFC outlets beginning this week, but will be available for a limited duration.
Inquiring whether your nearby KFC has Funnel Cake Fries. A comprehensive list of participating venues is available here.